Vivienne Treacy-Chandler

Interior Design Course Graduate

“I would recommend this course to anyone looking for a new career path in design and decorating as it was thoroughly enjoyable and rewarding.”

I had worked for 25 years in hospitality as the Department Manager of Accommodation in both New Zealand and Australia.

Through these years I had the pleasure of being involved in five hotel refurbishments. Some of them were well done, but others… well, let’s just say there were a few bad choices made that did not work in a commercial environment. I decided it was time to develop my skills so that I could be the one doing the designing and advising to the hotel owners. I saw the Professional Interior Design Academy’s course advertised in a House & Garden magazine and that it lead to a Diploma of Professional Interior Design.

I was so nervous when I rang to enquire, but the lady on the phone was so helpful and advised me of how the course was self-paced, that I could pay the course off over a few months and that I would have my own tutor who would be happy answering any questions along the way. I was so excited – this is what I had been looking for.

I signed up and waited with anticipation for my first assignment. I received my first tutorial and it was full of information, breaking down styles that I had always had a little trouble understanding; it had websites, books to read, exhibitions to attend, pictures of rooms and designer furniture and of course my first assignment.

I really liked the way that the academy had put the information together. It was easy to read, nothing was too daunting and it was the same with all the assignments. It was satisfying when I posted off my first completed assignment. I couldn’t wait for the feedback and the next assignment to arrive. Simon Savage was my tutor, I had been so concerned that I would not live up to his expectations, but Simon was very informative and he had a relaxed manner that made me feel comfortable. He shared many interesting true life experiences that made me realise that, I was no doubt going to make some mistakes, just as he had. As each new challenge came with successive assignments I found my confidence building. I thoroughly enjoyed doing the assignments and building relationships with local suppliers.

After receiving my diploma it gave me the confidence I needed to leave the hospitality industry and start my own small business. Within a couple of months I had completed three consultations with neighboring properties and have just completed a 16-year-old girl’s bedroom makeover. Word of mouth is amazing – I can’t get my business cards and flyers printed fast enough. I am about to work along side a Real Estate Agent who will refer clientele to me for property makeovers, pre-sale presentations, rental makeovers and consultations.

A while ago a business advisor said to me that if people can work out what it is they really enjoy doing and pursue it as a job; you will be happy, content and totally satisfied in your life. I would recommend this course to anyone looking for a new career path in design and decorating as it was thoroughly enjoyable and rewarding.

Vivienne Treacy-Chandler

Testimonials

"Ecosmart Australasia Pty. Ltd. invited me to be part of their design and build team. Needless to say I am thrilled and am currently up to my eyeballs in clay paint and bamboo floors."

“My favourite thing about my job is seeing my clients’ faces light up once we have completed the changes. I once had client who turned to me and said, 'I think I no longer want to sell' after seeing her home set up for the photo shoot.”

“Even being in this industry for 13 years, I still learnt a thing or two. I would highly recommend this course, whether you’re just starting out or have been in the industry for years. You never stop learning."

“I would have absolutely no hesitation in recommending this interior design course to anyone. Whether a beginner or someone looking to refine their skills in interior design, this course can help you!"

“Don’t be put off thinking you need a degree. A lot of interior design thinkers are not compatible with the lecture hall environment of study [but] this course is a great alternative, as long as you are willing to put in the hard yards.”

“My passion lies in helping people transforming their homes. Time and time again I have referred to my course assignments and tutorials to help me in my business – especially in terms of engagement and how to charge a client.”

"After searching the Internet and reading about the various correspondence courses on offer, I discovered The Interior Design Academy’s Professional Interior Design Course. I felt that it was the one for me."

"Living in a country town I would not have had the opportunity to study Interior Design, let alone have a career, were it not for the convenience of the correspondence course. I have also enjoyed being able to work at my own pace in a relaxed home environment."

“As each tutorial progressed I gained confidence in the work I was achieving. On completion of the course, I found that having sourced different suppliers and companies to meet different aspects of the tutorials, I had amassed a huge portfolio of contacts."

“[The course] gave me confidence in this space, and, by the end, I had a portfolio that was relevant and a series of document templates that have been so useful in the “real world” – I haven’t looked back.”

"I am well on to my way to making a six figure salary, with another five commissions that I’m currently working on just for this year. I looked at The Interior Design Academy as an investment in my career."

"Studying with The Interior Design Academy was a pleasure. I was provided with all necessary information and time to complete assignments, it was affordable and convenient! My tutor always kept me informed."

“I thoroughly enjoyed all aspects of the course and it’s the best study decision I’ve ever made. The course covered everything ... from colour schemes, plans and ecofriendly designs. It was easy to follow and there was no pressure.”

"The Academy was truly the beginning of my journey; the course was informative, interesting and creative. The resources were brilliant and the assistance and feedback provided by my tutor was invaluable."

"The biggest plus for me with this course was the flexibility of distance learning. This interior design course is well written and very up to date. I really appreciated my tutor’s feedback and that support was important to the whole learning process."

“Acquiring my diploma with The Interior Design Academy has given me such confidence and a great sense of satisfaction. I have already made a name for myself and now that I am a qualified professional interior designer I can get my business going.".

Please direct any questions you may have to the Academy: Phone +61 (2) 9327-7778 or email [email protected]

We appreciate that you may wish to speak with someone who has completed the course, however, we respect our graduates time and privacy and must be mindful of their own professional commitments. We therefore ask that you contact us directly.

ABOUT THE INTERIOR DESIGN ACADEMY

The Interior Design Academy has proudly provided interior design courses and training since 2003. Our directors and principals have been involved in all aspects of media work and distance education for over 30 years and we have provided interior design courses online to students in over 80 countries and territories.

FIND US IN YOUR LOCATION

Courses available to anyone in Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Hobart, Perth, Brisbane, Darwin, Canberra and all regional and metropolitan areas. As the course is conducted online, you can undertake it from any location in the world. The Interior Design Academy is a division of Australian News and Feature Service Pty Ltd. Our sister college in the United Kingdom is the British College of Interior Design providing online interior design courses in Australia and New Zealand.